Objectives. The aim of this study was to compare the biomechanical stability and clinical outcome of external fixator combined with limited internal fixation (EFLIF) and open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) in treating Sanders type 2 calcaneal fractures. Methods. Two types of fixation systems were selected for finite element analysis and a dual cohort study. Two fixation systems were simulated to fix the fracture in a finite element model. The relative displacement and stress distribution were analysed and compared. A total of 71 consecutive patients with closed Sanders type 2 calcaneal fractures were enrolled and divided into two groups according to the treatment to which they chose: the EFLIF group and the ORIF group. The radiological and clinical outcomes were evaluated and compared. Results. The relative displacement of the EFLIF was less than that of the plate (0.1363 mm to 0.1808 mm). The highest von Mises stress value on the plate was 33% higher than that on the EFLIF. A normal restoration of the Böhler angle was achieved in both groups. No significant difference was found in the clinical outcome on the American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society Ankle Hindfoot Scale, or on the Visual Analogue Scale between the two groups (p > 0.05). Wound complications were more common in those who were treated with ORIF (p = 0.028). Conclusions. Both EFLIF and ORIF systems were tested to 160 N without failure, showing the new construct to be mechanically safe to use. Both EFLIF and ORIF could be effective in treating Sanders type 2 calcaneal fractures. The EFLIF may be superior to ORIF in achieving biomechanical stability and less blood loss, shorter surgical time and hospital stay, and fewer wound complications. Cite this article: M. Pan, L. Chai, F. Xue, L. Ding, G. Tang, B. Lv. Comparisons of external fixator combined with limited internal fixation and open reduction and internal fixation for Sanders type 2 calcaneal fractures: Finite element analysis and clinical outcome. Bone Joint Res 2017;6:433–438. DOI: 10.1302/2046-3758.67.2000640

Aims. In our unit, we adopt a two-stage surgical reconstruction approach using internal fixation for the management of infected Charcot foot deformity. We evaluate our experience with this functional limb salvage method. Methods. We conducted a retrospective analysis of prospectively collected data of all patients with infected Charcot foot deformity who underwent two-stage reconstruction with internal fixation between July 2011 and November 2019, with a minimum of 12 months’ follow-up. Results. We identified 23 feet in 22 patients with a mean age of 56.7 years (33 to 70). The mean postoperative follow-up period was 44.7 months (14 to 99). Limb salvage was achieved in all patients. At one-year follow-up, all ulcers have healed and independent full weightbearing mobilization was achieved in all but one patient. Seven patients developed new mechanical skin breakdown; all went on to heal following further interventions. Fusion of the hindfoot was achieved in 15 of 18 feet (83.3%). Midfoot fusion was achieved in nine of 15 patients (60%) and six had stable and painless fibrous nonunion. Hardware failure occurred in five feet, all with broken dorsomedial locking plate. Six patients required further surgery, two underwent revision surgery for infected nonunion, two for removal of metalwork and exostectomy, and two for dynamization of the hindfoot nail. Conclusion. Two-stage reconstruction of the infected and deformed Charcot foot using internal fixation and following the principle of ‘long-segment, rigid and durable internal fixation, with optimal bone opposition and local antibiotic elusion’ is a good form of treatment provided a multidisciplinary care plan is delivered. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2021;103-B(10):1611–1618

Introduction. Acute ankle injuries are commonly seen in musculoskeletal practice. Surgical management is the gold standard for lateral ligament injury in those with failed conservative treatment for a minimum of six months. Several studies have shown good functional outcome and early rehabilitation after MBG repair with an internal brace augmentation which is a braided ultrahigh molecular weight polyethylene ligament used to enhance the repair that acts as a secondary stabiliser. Hence the aim of the study was to compare the results with and without augmentation. Methods. A single centre retrospective review conducted between November 2017 and October 2019 and this included 172 patients with symptomatic chronic lateral ligament instability with failed conservative management. The diagnosis was confirmed by MRI. All patients had an ankle arthroscopy followed by open ligament repair. Patients were grouped into isolated MBG and internal brace groups for analyses and all had dedicated rehabilitation. Results. A total of 148 patients were available for final follow up with 87 patients in the MBG group and 61 patients in the IBA group. Mean Age was 38 years and mean follow up was 22 months. The internal brace group showed better Manchester Oxford foot and ankle score (19.7 vs 18.2) and more patients returning to preinjury activity levels (73 vs 55) as compared to isolated repair. Conclusion. Internal brace augmentation with MBG repair facilitated early rehabilitation and return to pre injury activity level in majority of patients compared to isolated MBG repair

Background. Studies have compared open reduction internal fixation (ORIF) with fibular nail fixation (FNF) and shown reduced wound complications with minimal difference to PROMS in the short term. Our aim is to compare long-term outcomes for unstable ankle fractures at 10 year follow up. Methods. Patients from a previously conducted RCT were contacted at a minimum of 10 years post intervention at a single study centre. Case notes were reviewed, and patient reported outcome measures acquired at 10 years. Results. Ninety-nine patients were included (48 FNF and 51 ORIF). After 10 years 75% (33/44) of patients in the FNF group required no further follow up versus 81% (39/48) in the ORIF group. Radiographically at 2 years post-injury, there was no statistically significant difference between groups for development of osteoarthritis (p=0.851). There was one tibio-talar fusion in each group secondary to osteoarthritis, but no statistically significant difference in overall re-operation rate (p=0.518). Fifty-one percent (n=50) of patients have so far returned patient reported outcome measures at a minimum of 10 years (Fibular nail n=23, plate fixation n=27). No significant difference was found between groups for the mean scores of Olerud and Molander Ankle Score (FNF 84.78 vs ORIF 84.07; p=0.883), the Manchester-Oxford Foot Questionnaire (MOXFQ) (FNF 89.54 vs ORIF 96.47; p=0.112), Euroqol-5D Index (FNF 0.88 vs ORIF 0.87; p=0.701) and Euroqol-5D Visual Analogue Score (FNF 77.30 vs ORIF 77.52; p=0.859). Conclusion. The current study illustrates that both methods of treatment result in a satisfactory long-term outcome with no difference in late complications or PROM scores at up to 10 years in patients under 65 years old, although the study is currently under powered

Aims. The aim of this study was to describe the technique of distraction osteogenesis followed by arthrodesis using internal fixation to manage complex conditions of the ankle, and to present the results of this technique. Patients and Methods. Between 2008 and 2014, distraction osteogenesis followed by arthrodesis using internal fixation was performed in 12 patients with complex conditions of the ankle due to trauma or infection. There were eight men and four women: their mean age was 35 years (23 to 51) at the time of surgery. Bone healing and functional recovery were evaluated according to the criteria described by Paley. Function was assessed using the ankle-hindfoot scale of the American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS). Results. A solid fusion of the ankle and eradication of infection was achieved in all patients. A mean lengthening of 6.1 cm (2.5 to 14) was achieved at a mean follow-up of 25.2 months (14 to 37). The mean external fixation index (EFI) was 42 days/cm (33.3 to 58). The function was judged to be excellent in six patients and good in six patients. Bone results were graded as excellent in ten patients and good in two patients. The mean AOFAS score was 37.3 (5 to 77) preoperatively and 75.3 (61 to 82) at the final follow-up. Minor complications, which were treated conservatively, included pain, pin-tract infection, loosening of wires, and midfoot stiffness. Major complications, which were treated surgically included grade V pin-tract infection with inflammation and osteolysis, poor consolidation of the regenerate bone, and soft-tissue invagination. The reoperations required to treat the major complications included the exchange of pins and wires, bone grafting and invagination split surgery. Conclusion. The technique of distraction osteogenesis followed by arthrodesis using internal fixation is an effective form of treatment for the management of complex conditions of the ankle. It offers a high rate of union, an opportunity to remove the frame early, and a reduced EFI without infection or wound dehiscence. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2018;100-B:755–60

Aims. A pilon fracture is a severe ankle joint injury caused by high-energy trauma, typically affecting men of working age. Although relatively uncommon (5% to 7% of all tibial fractures), this injury causes among the worst functional and health outcomes of any skeletal injury, with a high risk of serious complications and long-term disability, and with devastating consequences on patients’ quality of life and financial prospects. Robust evidence to guide treatment is currently lacking. This study aims to evaluate the clinical and cost-effectiveness of two surgical interventions that are most commonly used to treat pilon fractures. Methods. A randomized controlled trial (RCT) of 334 adult patients diagnosed with a closed type C pilon fracture will be conducted. Internal locking plate fixation will be compared with external frame fixation. The primary outcome and endpoint will be the Disability Rating Index (a patient self-reported assessment of physical disability) at 12 months. This will also be measured at baseline, three, six, and 24 months after randomization. Secondary outcomes include the Olerud and Molander Ankle Score (OMAS), the five-level EuroQol five-dimenison score (EQ-5D-5L), complications (including bone healing), resource use, work impact, and patient treatment preference. The acceptability of the treatments and study design to patients and health care professionals will be explored through qualitative methods. Discussion. The two treatments being compared are the most commonly used for this injury, however there is uncertainty over which is most clinically and cost-effective. The Articular Pilon Fracture (ACTIVE) Trial is a sufficiently powered and rigorously designed study to inform clinical decisions for the treatment of adults with this injury. Cite this article: Bone Jt Open 2021;2(3):150–163

Introduction:. We report our 10-year experience of post-operative complications of calcaneal fractures treated by internal fixation and attempt to correlate these with previously cited patient risk factors. Methods:. All calcaneal fractures treated by internal fixation in our Major Trauma Centre between September 2002 and September 2012 were identified. Patient indices (age, gender, smoking status and pre-existing co-morbidities), time to surgery and method of surgery (open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) versus closed reduction and percutaneous fixation) were recorded. Primary outcome was the incidence of wound infection requiring intravenous antibiotics and/or re-operation. Statistical analysis through Mann-Whitney-Wilcoxon testing and relative risk ratio calculations with 95% Confidence Intervals (CI) was performed. Results:. 98 calcaneal fractures in 92 patients were identified. 79 (80.6%) fractures occurred in males, 19 (19.4%) in females. 54 (55.1%) were smokers and 44 (44.9%) non-smokers. 18 (18.4%) were treated by closed reduction and percutaenous fixation and 80 (81.6%) by ORIF. 3 (3.1%) patients (all male) developed post-operative wound infection (RR 0.96, 95% CI 0.92–1.00), of which 1 was a smoker (RR 1.03 95% CI 0.95–1.11). All infections occurred in patients treated percutaneously (RR 6.33, 95% CI 3.99–10.08). There was no significant difference in mean time to surgery (p=0.069) and mean age (p=0.31) for those patients experiencing wound complications and those who did not. Conclusions:. This study reports an overall wound infection rate in keeping with current literature. There was no statistically significant increased risk of wound infection in smokers or male patients. All infections occurred in patients who had percutaneous treatment. These findings support the continued treatment of displaced calcaneal fractures by open reduction and internal fixation through a conventional extended lateral approach. There is no justification in denying surgery to males or smokers although these two factors have been cited as poor prognostic indicators in earlier studies

We studied retrospectively the results in 24 patients (25 feet) who had been treated by subtalar arthrodesis with internal compression for post-traumatic arthritis from 1988 to 1992. Fifteen patients were men (16 feet) and nine (9 feet) were women. Their mean age was 43 years (22 to 68), and the average duration of follow-up was four years (2 to 6). A single compression screw was used in all feet and iliac-crest bone grafting in ten. Union was achieved in 24 of the 25 feet (96%). Based on a clinical scale the results were excellent in 10 feet, good in 7, fair in 6, and poor in 2 and on the Angus and Cowell score they were good in 19 feet, fair in 4, and poor in 2. The two poor results were due to nonunion in one patient and reflex sympathetic dystrophy in the other. One reoperation was performed for nonunion. Eighteen patients (18 feet) were satisfied with the results, four were satisfied with reservations, and three were dissatisfied. Progressive ankle and midfoot arthritis did not occur in the absence of pre-existing degenerative changes in these joints. We conclude that isolated subtalar arthrodesis with internal compression was effective treatment for post-traumatic subtalar arthritis. Iliac-crest bone grafting was not routinely required

Aims

Involvement of the posterior malleolus in fractures of the ankle probably adversely affects the functional outcome and may be associated with the development of post-traumatic osteoarthritis. Anatomical reduction is a predictor of a successful outcome.

The purpose of this study was to describe the technique and short-term outcome of patients with trimalleolar fractures, who were treated surgically using a posterolateral approach in our hospital between 2010 and 2014.

Background. The importance of total ankle replacement (TAR) implant orientation in the axial plane is poorly understood with major variation in surgical technique of implants on the market. Our aims were to better understand the axial rotational profile of patients undergoing TAR. Methods. In 157 standardised CT Scans of end-stage ankle arthritis patients planning to undergo primary TAR surgery, we measured the relationship between the knee posterior condylar axis, the tibial tuberosity, the transmalleolar axis(TMA) and the tibiotalar angle. The foot position was measured in relation to the TMA with the foot plantigrade. The variation between medial gutter line and the line bisecting both gutters was assessed. Results. The mean external tibial torsion was 34.5±10.3°(11.8–62°). When plantigrade the mean foot position relative to the TMA was 21±10.6°(0.7–38.4°) internally rotated. As external tibial torsion increased, the foot position became more internally rotated relative to the TMA(pearson correlation 0.6;p< 0.0001). As the tibiotalar angle became more valgus, the foot became more externally rotated relative to the TMA(pearson correlation −0.4;p< 0.01). The mean difference between the medial gutter line and a line bisecting both gutters was 4.9±2.8°(1.7°-9.4°). More than 51% of patients had a difference greater than 5°. The mean angle between the medial gutter line and a line perpendicular to the TMA was 7.5°±2.6°(2.8°-13.7°). Conclusion. There is a large variation in rotational profile of patients undergoing TAR, particularly between the medial gutter line and the transmalleolar axis. Surgeon designers and implant manufacturers need to develop consistent methods to guide surgeons towards judging appropriate axial rotation of their implanton an individual basis. We recommend careful clinical assessment and CT scanspre-operatively to enable the correct rotation to be determined

Introduction. Unstable ankle fractures are routinely managed operatively. Due to soft-tissue and implant related complications, there has been recent literature reporting on the non-operative management of well-reduced medial malleolus fractures following fibular stabilisation, but with limited evidence supporting routine application. This trial assessed the superiority of internal fixation of well-reduced (displacement ≤2mm) medial malleolus fractures compared with non-fixation following fibular stabilisation. Methods and participants. Superiority, pragmatic, parallel, prospective randomised clinical trial conducted over a four year period. A total of 154 adult patients with a bi- or trimalleolar fractures were recruited from a single centre. Open injuries and vertical medial malleolar fractures were excluded. Following fibular stabilisation, patients were randomised intra-operatively on a 1:1 basis to fixation or non-fixation after satisfactory fluoroscopic fracture reduction was confirmed. The primary outcome was the Olerud Molander Ankle Score (OMAS) at one-year post-randomisation. Complications and radiographic outcomes were documented over the follow-up period. Results. Among 154 participants (mean age, 56.5 years; 119 women [77%]), 144 [94%] completed the trial. At one-year the median OMAS was 80 (IQR, 60–90) in the fixation group compared with 72.5 (IQR, 55–90) in the non-fixation group (p=0.17). Complication rates were comparable. Significantly more patients in the non-fixation group developed a radiographic non-union (20% vs 0%; p<0.001), with the majority (n=8/13) clinically asymptomatic and one patient required surgical re-intervention for this. Fracture type and reduction quality appeared to influence fracture union and patient outcome. Conclusions. In this randomised clinical trial comparing internal fixation of well-reduced medial malleolus fractures with non-fixation, following fibular stabilisation, fixation was not superior according to the primary outcome. However, 1 in 5 patients following non-fixation developed a radiographic non-union and whilst the re-intervention rate to manage this was low, the future implications require surveillance. These results may support selective non-fixation of anatomically reduced medial malleolus fractures

Introduction. Surgical reconstruction of Charcot joint deformity is increasingly being offered to patients. In our centre a hybrid type fixation technique is utilised: internal and external fixation. This combined fixation has better wound management and earlier mobilisation in this deconditioned patient group. The aim of this study was to assess clinical, radiological and patient reported outcomes for all patients who underwent this hybrid technique. Methods. This is a prospective observational case series of all patients who underwent surgical reconstruction of Charcot foot deformity in a single centre between June 2017 and June 2023. Patient demographics, smoking status, diabetic control and BMI were recorded. Outcomes were determined from case notes and included clinical outcomes (complications, return to theatre, amputation and mortality) radiological outcomes and patient reported outcomes. The follow up period was 1–7 years post operatively. Results. 42 reconstructions were included. At the time of surgery the mean age was 59.1 years (29 – 91 years), average HbA1c was 65.2 (33–103); this did not correlate with return to theatre rate. 4 procedures were internal fixation alone (9.5%), 3 external fixation alone (7.1%) and 35 were combined fixation (83.3%). At most recent follow up 7 patients were deceased (16.7%), 2 patients had ipsilateral amputations, 2 had contralateral amputations. 11 patients had issues with recurrent ulcerations. Excluding refreshing of frames and operations on the contralateral side, 17 patients (40%) returned to theatre. We aim to present a detailed analysis of the rate of post-operative complications, return to theatre, radiographic outcomes and patient reported outcomes. Conclusion. This is the largest UK based case series of hybrid type Charcot joint reconstructions and shows that hybrid fixation is a viable option for patients undergoing Charcot joint reconstruction. To best confirm findings and determine which patients have the best post-operative prognosis a larger multi-centre study is required

Aims. The Vantage Total Ankle System is a fourth-generation low-profile fixed-bearing implant that has been available since 2016. We aimed to describe our early experience with this implant. Methods. This is a single-centre retrospective review of patients who underwent primary total ankle arthroplasty (TAA) with a Vantage implant between November 2017 and February 2020, with a minimum of two years’ follow-up. Four surgeons contributed patients. The primary outcome was reoperation and revision rate of the Vantage implant at two years. Secondary outcomes included radiological alignment, peri-implant complications, and pre- and postoperative patient-reported outcomes. Results. There were 168 patients (171 ankles) included with a mean follow-up of 2.81 years (2 to 4.6) and mean age of 63.0 years (SD 9.4). Of the ten ankles with implant failure (5.8%), six had loosening of the tibial component. In the remaining four failed implants, one was due to periprosthetic joint infection (PJI), one was due to loosening of the talar component, and two were due to loosening of both the tibial and talar components. Seven patients underwent reoperation: irrigation and debridement for superficial infection (n = 4); bone grafting for cysts (n = 2); and open reduction internal fixation (n = 1). Asymptomatic peri-implant lucency/subsidence occurred in 20.1% of ankles, with the majority involving the tibial component (n = 25). There were statistically significant improvements in PROMs in all domains. Conclusion. Short-term results of this implant demonstrate early survival comparable to the reported survivorship of similar low-profile, non-stemmed implants. Radiological lucency occurred more commonly at the tibial component, and revisions occurred primarily due to loosening of the tibial component. Further research is needed to evaluate longer-term survivorship. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2023;105-B(10):1099–1107

Aims. This study aimed to compare the outcomes of two different postoperative management approaches following surgical fixation of ankle fractures: traditional cast immobilization versus the Early Motion and Directed Exercise (EMADE) programme. Methods. A total of 157 patients aged 18 years or older who underwent successful open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) of Weber B (AO44B) ankle fractures were recruited to this randomized controlled trial. At two weeks post-surgical fixation, participants were randomized to either light-weight cast-immobilization or the EMADE programme, consisting of progressive home exercises and weekly advice and education. Both groups were restricted to non-weightbearing until six weeks post-surgery. The primary outcome was assessed using the Olerud-Molander Ankle Score (OMAS) questionnaire at 12 weeks post-surgery, with secondary measures at two, six, 24, and 52 weeks. Exploratory cost-effectiveness analyses were also performed. Results. Overall, 130 participants returned their 12-week OMAS questionnaires. The mean OMAS was significantly higher in the EMADE group compared with the immobilized group (62.0 (SD 20.9) vs 48.8 (SD 22.5)), with a clinically meaningful mean difference of 13.2 (95% CI 5.66 to 20.73; p < 0.001). These differences were maintained at week 24, with convergence by week 52. No intervention-related adverse events, including instability, were reported. Conclusion. The EMADE programme demonstrated an accelerated recovery compared to traditional six-week cast immobilization for those who have undergone ORIF surgery to stabilize Weber B (AO44B) ankle fractures. The study found the EMADE intervention to be safe. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2024;106-B(9):949–956

Background. Whereas arthroscopic arthrodesis of the ankle is commonplace and of the subtalar joint is established, reports of arthroscopic talo-navicular fusion are a rarity. Aim. To review a case series to establish if arthroscopic talo-navicular arthrodesis is a feasible surgical option. Methods. Arthroscopic decortication of the talo-navicular joint is performed via x1-2 sinus tarsi portals and x1-2 accessory talo-navicular portals using a standard arthroscope and a 4.5 barrel burr. Internal fixation is by a 5mm screw from the navicular tuberosity and x2 headless compression screws introduced under image intensification from the dorsal navicular to the talar head. Between 2004 and 2017 a consecutive series of 164 patients underwent arthroscopic hindfoot arthrodeses of which 72 involved the talo-navicular joint. Only 13 procedures were of that joint alone in unsullied feet. The medical records of these 13 patients were reviewed to assess radiological fusion, complications and improvement of pre-operative state. Results. All Talo-navicular joints were successfully decorticated. All united radiologically by a mean 4.4 months (range 3–8). There were no major complications. All patients reported improvement to their pre-operative symptoms but one patient developed lateral column pain requiring fusion. Conclusions. Arthroscopic Talo-navicular arthrodesis is technically feasible with good rates of union. Complications were rare, making the technique attractive when encountering a poor soft tissue envelope. The surgery cannot be used if bone grafting is required. Long term discomfort can arise from adjacent joints. Accurate alignment is critical

Introduction. Following publication of the Ankle Injury Management (AIM) trial in 2016 which compared the management of ankle fractures with open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) versus closed contact casting (CCC), we looked at how the results of this study have been adopted into practice in a trauma unit in the United Kingdom. Methods. Institutional approval granted to identify eligible patients from a trauma database. 143 patients over 60 years with an unstable ankle fracture between 2017 and 2019 (1 year following publication of the AIM trial) were included. Open fractures, and patients with insulin-dependent diabetes or peripheral vessel disease were excluded (as per AIM criteria). Radiographs were reviewed for malunion and non-union. Clinical notes were reviewed for adverse events. Minimum follow up was 24 months. Results. Of the 143 patients, 42 patients (29.4%) received a moulded cast with a return to theatre rate of 21.4%, malunion rate of 30.1%, and infection or wound problem rate of 4.8%. When the exact phrase “close contact cast” was specified in 21 patients (14.7%), there was a 19.0% return to theatre rate, 28.6% malunion rate, and a 4.8% infection or wound problem rate. 101 patients (70.6%) had ORIF with a return to theatre rate of 10.9%, malunion rate of 5.0%, and infection or wound problem rate of 13.9%. Discussion. Our results show a high rate of complication with cast management of unstable ankle fractures in this older population. This was improved where CCC was specified, but remains higher even than those published in the AIM trial. Whilst there is certainly a role for CCC in carefully selected patients, we would advise caution in the widespread adoption of a close contact casting technique

Background. Optimal management of displaced intra-articular calcaneal fractures remains controversial. The aim of this prospective cohort study was to compare the clinical and radiological outcomes of minimally invasive surgery (MIS) versus non-operative treatment in displaced intra-articular calcaneal fracture up to 2-years. Methods. All displaced intra-articular calcaneal fractures between August 2014 and January 2019 that presented to a level 1 trauma centre were considered for inclusion. The decision to treat was made by a multidisciplinary meeting. Operative treatment protocol involved sinus tarsi approach or percutaneous reduction & internal fixation. Non-operative protocol involved symptomatic management with no attempt at closed reduction. All fractures were classified, and the MOXFQ/EQ-5D-5L scores were used to assess foot and ankle and general health-related quality of life outcomes respectively. Results. 101 patients were recruited at a level 1 major trauma centre, between August 2014 and January 2019. Our propensity score matched 44 patients in the surgical cohort to 44 patients in the non-surgical cohort. At 24 months, there was no significant difference in the MOXFQ Index score (p<0.05) however the patients in the surgical cohort had a significantly higher EQ-5D-5L Index score (p<0.05). There was also a higher return to work (91% vs 72%, p<0.05) and physical activity rate (46 vs. 35%, p<0.05) in the surgical cohort despite a higher proportion of more complex fractures in the surgical cohort. The wound complication rate following surgery was 16%. 14% of patients in the non-operative cohort subsequently underwent arthrodesis compared to none of the patients in the surgical cohort. Conclusion. In this study, we found operative treatments were associated with low rates of surgical complication at 2-years and long term pain improvement, facilitating earlier and better functional outcomes for complex injury patterns compared to nonoperative treatment

Aims. Management of intra-articular calcaneal fractures remains a debated topic in orthopaedics, with operative fixation often held in reserve due to concerns regarding perioperative morbidity and potential complications. The purpose of this study was to identify the characteristics of patients who developed surgical complications to inform the future stratification of patients best suited to operative treatment for intra-articular calcaneal fractures and those in whom surgery was highly likely to produce an equivocal functional outcome with potential post-operative complications. Methods. All patients who underwent open reduction and internal fixation of calcaneal fractures utilizing the Sinus Tarsi approach between March 2014 and July 2018 were identified using theatre records. Patient imaging was used to assess pre- and post-operative fracture geometry with Computed Tomography (CT) used for pre-operative planning. Each patient's clinical presentation was established through retrospective analysis of medical records. Patients provided verbal consent to participation and patient reported outcome measures were recorded using the Maryland Foot Score. Results. Fifty-eight intra-articular calcaneal fractures (fifty-three patients including five bilateral, mean age = 46.91 years) were included. Forty-nine patients were injured as a result of a fall from a height (92.4%). Mean time from presentation to surgery was 3.23 days (range 0–21). Mean Maryland Foot score was found to be 77.6 (+/− 16.22) in forty-five patients. Five patients (9.4%) had wound complications; two superficial (3.7%) and three deep (5.6%). Conclusion. Intra-articular fractures of the calcaneus should be considered for surgical intervention in order to improve long-term functional outcomes. The Sinus Tarsi approach provides the potential to decrease the operative complication rate whilst maintaining adequate fixation, however, the decision to surgically manage these fractures should be carefully balanced against the risk of post-operative complications. This increased risk of complication associated with smoking may tip the balance against benefit from surgical management

Background. Undisplaced Lisfranc-type injuries are subtle but potentially unstable fracture-dislocations with little known about the natural history. These injuries are often initially managed conservatively due to lack of initial displacement and uncertainty regarding subsequent instability at the tarsometatarsal joints (TMTJ). The aim of this study was to determine the secondary displacement rate and the need for delayed operative intervention in undisplaced Lisfranc injuries that were managed conservatively at initial presentation. Methods. Over a 6-year period (2011 to 2017), we identified 24 consecutive patients presenting to a university teaching hospital with a diagnosis of an undisplaced Lisfranc-type injury that was initially managed conservatively. Pre-operative radiographs were reviewed to confirm the undisplaced nature of the injury (defined as a diastasis< 2mm at the second TMTJ). The presence of a ‘fleck’ sign (small bony avulsion of the second metatarsal) was also noted. Electronic patient records and sequential imaging (plain radiographs/CT/MRI) were scrutinized for demographics, mechanism of injury and eventual outcome. Results. The mean age of the patients at the time of injury was 42 years (19 Female). 96% (23/24) were low energy injuries and 88% (21/24) had a positive ‘fleck sign’. The secondary displacement rate in this group of patients was 62.5% (15/24) over a median interval of 14 days (range 0 to 482 days). 12 patients underwent open reduction internal fixation after a median interval of 29 days (range 1 to 294 days) from their initial injury. One patient required TMTJ fusion at 19 months and two patients were managed non-operatively. The injury remained undisplaced in 37.5% patients (9/24) with only one patient requiring subsequent TMTJ fusion at 5 months. Conclusion. Undisplaced Lisfranc injuries have a high rate of secondary displacement and warrant close follow-up. Early primary stabilisation of undisplaced Lisfranc injuries should be considered to prevent unnecessary delays in surgical treatment

Introduction. Tibial Pilon fractures are potentially limb threatening, yet standards of care are lacking from BOFAS and the BOA. The mantra of “span, scan, plan” describes staged management with external fixation to allow soft tissue resuscitation, followed by a planning CT-scan. Our aim was to evaluate how Tibial Pilon fractures are acutely managed. Methods. ENFORCE was a multi-centre retrospective observational study of the acute management of partial and complete articular Tibial Pilon fractures over a three-year period. Mechanism, imaging, fracture classification, time to fracture reduction and cast, and soft tissue damage control details were determined. Results. 656 patients (670 fractures) across 27 centres were reported. AO fracture classifications were: partial articular (n=294) and complete articular (n=376). Initial diagnostic imaging mobilities were: plain radiographs (n=602) and CT-scan (n=54), with all but 38 cases having a planning CT-scan. 526 fractures had a cast applied in the Emergency Department (91 before radiological diagnosis), with the times taken to obtain post cast imaging being: mean 2.7 hours, median 2.3 hours, range 28 mins – 14 hours). 35% (102/294) of partial articular and 57% (216/376) of complete articular (length unstable) fractures had an external fixator applied, all of which underwent a planning CT-scan. Definitive management consisted of: open reduction internal fixation (n=495), fine wire frame (n=86), spanning external fixator (n=25), intramedullary nail (n=25), other (n=18). Conclusion. The management of Tibial Pilon fractures is variable, with prolonged delays in obtaining post cast reduction radiographs, and just over half of length unstable complete articular fractures being managed with the gold standard “span, scan, plan” staged soft tissue resuscitation. A BOFAS endorsed BOAST (British Orthopaedic Association Standard for Trauma) for Tibial Pilon fractures is suggested for standardisation of the acute management of these potentially limb threatening injuries, together with setting them apart from more straightforward ankle fractures